MV Ocean Outback update January 10

The livestock on-board Wellard’s vessel, the M/V Ocean Outback, remain in a very healthy condition with all livestock services – feed, water and ventilation – operating as normal.

Wellard has been working with the owner of the sheep and cattle on board the vessel to use Wellard’s large international network to locate a closer alternative market for the sheep and cattle.

As a result, the M/V Ocean Outback was brought into Fremantle port late yesterday afternoon to load additional fodder and bedding so the vessel could proceed to South East Asia with the 5,500 cattle on board. The cattle will be supplied to a regular buyer of Australian cattle who is Exporter Supply Chain Assurance System (ESCAS) accredited, assuring the best animal welfare outcome.

The M/V Ocean Outback was constructed with a Dual Independent Propulsion System, so can safely operate on one of its two engines. It has previously completed a number of successful short voyages using a single engine, without impacting on voyage success rates.

The 7,500 sheep on board have been discharged and transported to a Pre Export Quarantine feedlot.

“Both the WA and Federal Governments and Departments have been very responsive and supportive to expedite a solution to this issue and I want to publicly acknowledge their support,” said Wellard CEO Mauro Balzarini.

When the vessel was in port it was inspected by a Federal Department of Agriculture Veterinarian, a WA Department of Agriculture animal welfare officer and an RSPCA inspector before being given clearance to proceed.

Mortalities recorded over the past 10 days are just three cattle from 5,600 loaded and 30 sheep from 7,500 loaded.